Zachariah Reynolds
(Pennsylvania, 1787-1865)
Angel, 1820
Pen and inkwash on laid paper
11 3/4" x 7 1/2" (sheet)

A folk art pen and ink from Washington County, Pennsylvania, of an angel dancing with a tambourine, as well as the image of an unidentified tree fruit. The painting was executed on the opposite side of an 1820 letter inquiring by Zachariah's father, Benedict Reynolds (1758-1848). The contents of the letter convey the health of various family members, with one somewhat topical aside: "Sally my little girl is now drawing Bonapart in trouble." The piece is housed in a double-sided glazed frame, which measures 15 1/2" x 12 1/2" x 1".

Creases typical of a letter. Scattered stains and toning.